I felt so . . . pale!

Leaving the ferry and stepping on St. John USVI I felt so pale and so

out of my element.

Like the selective coloring. Did you make a dup layer, destaturate everything, and then go back with the eraser too on the two subjects?

Congratulations! This is one of the best uses of this color on monochrome technique in that it makes a clear visual distinction - it makes a statement.

I did it the hard way - I used the Magic Wand and highlight everything I wanted to remane colored, then reversed it and desaturated.

 

There is probebly an easier way but I've never had a class.

 

Thanks

What I think is really interesting here is that the two figures jump out not just because of their color but because there is a complete lack of depth in the desaturated background. I don't know whether this is intended, but I find it an interesting effect - the two figures look like they're standing in front of a picture backdrop, except for the interesting positioning of the second figure half in/half out. (Just curious because your comment suggests you aren't entirely familiar with digital editing techniques - are you aware of the various methods for desaturating without losing the contrast and depth given by color, and did you choose to flatten the background like this?) It would be interesting to compare a version with more depth in the B+W, but I suspect I might like it just as is.

"are you aware of the various methods for desaturating without losing the contrast and depth given by color"

 

Heck no! I'm a hunt and pecker in PS, try this - try that seewhat works. I'm looking at the photo for the 1st time with my glasses on (as opposed to my contacts) and can see what you are talking about.

 

I love B&W photography but as you say - I lose depth and I can not figure out how to correct this.

I'm certainly no guru myself - you might find this tutorial useful.